Who doesn’t like seeing old and new friends gathered in the same place? Sometimes, this gathering may seem impossible because your lawn isn’t large enough, or your living room seems fit only for three or four people: not seven or eight. But there are ways to get around this mental, and sometimes physical, barrier. Here are some tips for having a get-together without leaving your small space.

Arrangement

We place couches, televisions, and tables around the living room based on how we usually want to live. For instance, the couch might be placed in front and center of the TV, because we want all attention on that new Netflix series. And the coffee table is placed directly in front of the couch, to hold our food and phones. That pretty much fills most of the open area in the average living room.

But think of a get-together as operating by different rules. The arrangement of your living room furniture should be different as well. Instead of arranging it based on your daily routine, open up the space. Maybe move that old recliner to your bedroom to open up the area. Just move it back after the party. And place that coffee table along the wall. Then you can use it to create a small buffet area.

Use Windows

Any gathering of people can make a small space hot. A cheap way to lower the room temperature without breaking the bank is by opening the windows. The cross breeze can easily cool the room without using electricity. Also, the added sunlight can brighten the party naturally, without the use of a million different lighting fixtures.

Kitchen Sink Cooler

Will there be a variety of drinks? Don’t worry about shoving them in the fridge you haven’t cleaned since last year. Prepare ice ahead of time and, once the party comes around, throw it all in the sink. It’s a quick and easy way to fit and cool all the drinks without making space in or cleaning out your fridge.

Get-togethers are a great way to keep in touch and have fun with your friends. Don’t let a small space cramp your party. Comment and let us know how you use small spaces for big events!